Porcupine
Although a bit weak, newborn porcupines are well developed with a complete set of quills. Soft at birth, the quills harden as the infant dries. The quills have a painfully sharp point that can stick deep into the skin of any animal or person that touches it.
The single baby (called a porcupette) has dark fur and a knowledge of how to protect itself very soon after birth. When mature, porcupines average about 5-6 kg in weight and about 60-100 cm in length.
Their strong stubby tails add about 15 cm to their length. They may range in colour from brownish black to light brown.
As North America's 2nd largest rodent, porcupines are continually gnawing to keep their teeth from growing too long. Their favourite food is the inner bark of diamond willow and other trees, berries, sedges, dandelions and interestingly, water lilies. They have been known to swim out some distance to reach them.
Contrary to popular belief, porcupines cannot throw their quills.
The scientific name for a porcupine is Erethizon Dorstum.
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